HONOLULU (AP) — The Honolulu Zoo has lost its accreditation.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums spokesman Rob Vernon said Tuesday he couldn’t disclose why the zoo’s application for reaccreditation was denied. He says the discussions are confidential.
But Honolulu officials say the association was concerned about the zoo’s funding. The city says the association encouraged the zoo to reapply once the city and its community partners have addressed its funding situation.
Vernon says loss of accreditation could affect the zoo’s animals in managed breeding programs.
But he says the Honolulu Zoo wouldn’t necessarily have to send these animals to another facility. He says officials would decide what’s best for each animal. He says the association would never want to endanger an animal’s health.
Over 200 U.S. zoos are accredited by the association, including the National Zoo in Washington.